SPIDER-MAN (2002)

Directed by: Sam Raimi
Written by: David Koepp
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Starring: Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
After being bitten by a genetically altered spider, mild-mannered Peter Parker develops superhuman abilities. The world at large begins to distrust him rather than embrace him as a hero. While Parker tries to figure out how to capitalize on his new powers, a second freak accident occurs, turning a scientist into the evil Green Goblin who wreaks havoc upon the town.

Movie Quote:
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson) in Spider-man (2002)

Bible Quote:
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Luke 12:48b (NIV)

Commentary:
Parker’s uncle Ben is trying to teach the youthful Peter a lesson that will be vital for him to learn. All men may be equal in the eyes of God, but in terms of abilities, strengths, or long suits, we are not equal. As we sojourn in this world, we may find ourselves among a few who excel in a given area. When we do, we should be asking ourselves how we might use our ability (or power) to its best advantage – not merely for our benefit, but for the benefit of all.

In the Old Testament, God chose a handful of men as his prophets to communicate His will to the people. In the gospel period, Jesus Christ was on this earth, revealing God’s truth and ministering to the hearts of God’s people. Today, we are the ones to whom God has given the power and authority to act in His name.

We are called to be part of the body of Christ. As a part of that body, we have a responsibility to use the power we’ve been given to function in the role to which we’ve been called. As with our physical body, should one limb or organ fail to perform its function, the whole body suffers as a result.

We’ve been given much for which to be thankful. We may express our thankfulness by doing what God would have us do with the power and abilities He’s granted us. The body of Christ will be stronger for it.

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. Prior to the quoted scripture, Jesus tells his disciples a parable. What is the meaning of the parable in context of Luke 12:48 and how does it relate to the film?
2. Peter can be seen as an illustration for a born again believer. What are the similarities? What are the differences?

Michael Elliott
www.screensermon.blogspot.com

INDEPENDENCE DAY (1996)

Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Written by: Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Starring: Bill Pullman, Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum
Rated: PG-13

About the film:
When aliens arrive with hostile intentions, the human race must band together to defeat them or face total annihilation. The President of the United States, a cable technician, a crop duster, and a fighter pilot embark on a desperate mission to save the world.

Movie Quote:
“Mankind - That word should have new meaning for all of us today. We can’t be consumed by our petty differences anymore. We will be united in our common interest.”
President Thomas Whitmore (Bill Pullman) in Independence Day (1996)

Bible Quote:
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”
Philippians 2:2 (NIV)

Commentary:
Sure, President Marshall’s address is an idealized sentiment. But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t strive to live up to it. It is exactly the type of mindset that God wants us to adopt.

In times of crises, we tend to remember this exhortation from God more readily than at times of peace. Certainly, we saw this demonstrated in the days following the terrible events of September 11th. It should be noted, however, that the scriptures do not say our unity is needed only at certain times. It is something for which we should always strive.

The body of Christ is certainly diverse. Born again believers come from different backgrounds, different cultures, and different ethnic groups. Our differences, being physical or otherwise manifested in tangible ways, are immediately seen. Our chief commonality is spiritual and, as such, invisible. For this reason, we must willfully determine to remember who we are in Christ, overlooking that which makes us different and embracing that which makes us one.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3 (NIV)

Questions to consider while watching the film:
1. What biblical examples illustrate the benefits of being like-minded?
2. Why, if God exhorts us to be like-minded, are there so many different Christian denominations?

Michael Elliott
http://screensermon.blogspot.com